Things To Do
in Stekene
Stekene is a tranquil rural municipality in East Flanders, Belgium, bordered by farmland, green hedgerows, and gentle waterways. Its compact town center offers a friendly, walkable vibe with local shops, cafes, and a sense of Flemish hospitality. The area combines countryside charm with easy access to larger cities like Ghent and Antwerp, making it ideal for relaxed day trips or weekend getaways.
Visitors can enjoy bike routes, nature reserves, and authentic local cuisine in a peaceful, authentic Belgian setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the beautiful St. Martin's Church, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, stroll through the quaint streets of the historic center, admiring the charming houses and local shops. Don't forget to stop by a cozy café for a traditional Belgian breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee.
In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour to learn about the rich history of Stekene and its significance in the region. Explore the local museum to see artifacts that showcase the area's past and cultural heritage. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local delicacies such as Flemish stew or a hearty croquette.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local brasserie for a leisurely dinner, where you can taste some of the finest Belgian beers paired with exquisite dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the town. Conclude your evening with dessert at a nearby gelateria, indulging in traditional Belgian chocolate treats.
Start your day with a refreshing nature walk in the nearby Stekense Heide, a beautiful heathland area known for its diverse flora and fauna. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the sounds of nature as you traverse the well-marked trails. Capture stunning photos of the landscape, especially in the early morning light.
After your morning hike, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic surroundings, taking in the tranquility and natural beauty. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or exploring the various trails that wind through the heath, discovering hidden gems along the way. You might even encounter locals tending to their gardens or enjoying a leisurely stroll.
As dusk approaches, head back into town and find a charming restaurant for dinner, where you can savor grilled local meats or fresh fish. After your meal, enjoy a relaxed evening at a nearby park, perhaps catching a local performance or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Wrap up your day with a nightcap at a local pub, mingling with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥖Groceries (weekly basket) | $40-70 |
| 🚆Public transit fare (one-way) | $2-3 |
| 🍷Wine/beer at restaurant | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, scenic countryside with easy access to Gent and Antwerp
- Walkable town center and friendly locals
- Good value for money and authentic Belgian experiences
- Damiliar rural charm with convenient day trips
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options within Stekene itself
- Public transport connections are good but not as frequent as larger cities
- Shopping and entertainment options are more limited than in big urban areas
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Goedendag" - Good day
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het station?" - Where is the train station?
- "Kan ik de rekening krijgen?" - Can I get the check?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Stekene
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming village square with historic facades and a classic Flemish pace; golden-hour light plays nicely on the building fronts and cobblestones.
A traditional church with a simple, dignified exterior and serene surroundings—great for architectural detail and quiet mood shots.
Quiet paths along water and expansive hedgerows offer pastoral compositions and silhouettes at sunset.
Food in Stekene
Stekene Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels served with a portion of crispy fries, a Belgian classic you’ll find at many local bistros near the coast and river regions.
Must-Try!
A rich beer-braised beef stew, often served with potatoes or new-season vegetables.
Creamy chicken or fish soup/stew with vegetables; a comforting Flemish staple found in regional eateries.
Seasonal white asparagus with hollandaise, a springtime specialty popular in East Flanders.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market near the town square offering fresh produce, dairy, bread, and local specialties; great for a casual lunch or picnic supplies.
On-route farm shop where you can buy farm-fresh eggs, cheeses, and seasonal vegetables directly from local producers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'goedemorgen' (good morning) or 'goedendag' (good day). Handshakes are common in formal meetings; maintain polite, calm conversation and avoid loud behavior in public places.
Keep hands visible, use utensils properly, and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. Tipping is appreciated but discreet.
Safety
Tipping in Stekene
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. If service is satisfactory, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common, especially in restaurants where service charge isn’t included.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming orchards and fields; occasional showers. A great time for flowers, countryside walks, and outdoor cafés.
Long days and pleasant warmth; be prepared for sudden showers. Perfect for cycling, outdoor markets, and sunset strolls.
Cooler temps and colorful foliage; harvest season brings seasonal dishes and markets with autumn produce.
Cool to cold with a chance of frost; some outdoor activities reduce in daylight hours, but cozy cafés and winter markets are common.
Stekene at Night
Hiking in Stekene
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic 5–7 km loop through local woodlands and fields, ideal for a relaxed morning hike.
7–10 km of flat riverside walking with water birdwatching and open views.
Several short trails within a short drive offer boardwalks and wildlife viewing in a protected landscape.
Airports
How to reach Stekene by plane.
Nearby smaller international airport; easy access by road or rail for regional travel and short-haul flights.
Major international hub about 75-90 km away; offers broad connections and frequent public transport links.
Coastal airport about 120-150 km away; convenient for certain European routes and weekend getaways.
Netherlands-based regional airport within roughly a 1.5–2 hour drive; serves several European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Stekene has a family-friendly vibe with schools and parks nearby, making it appealing for households with children.
Quiet streets and slower pace attract longtime residents and retirees seeking a peaceful setting.
Some residents commute to nearby towns for work, leveraging easy rail and road links.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Belgium; local clubs and informal matches are common in villages.
A favored activity in the Flemish countryside, with many scenic, flat routes suitable for all levels.
Local courts and clubs provide opportunities for recreational play and lessons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stekene.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local eateries can accommodate vegetarian diets. Look for dishes featuring seasonal vegetables, legumes, and dairy; ask about meat-free options or daily specials; many places can adapt classics to be veggie-friendly.